tree spinach
Chenopodium giganteum
An edible ‘baby-leaf’ annual tasting similar to spinach and chard, with a slight hint of asparagus when cooked. Tree spinach develops long spikes of tiny red flowers if not pinched or picked regularly but it is in the vivid magenta-tinged ‘glittery’ young growth that really shines in salads.
Keep picking for tasty and tender leaves, and to avoid the plant running to seed too soon. Grains can also be dried and saved for baking like quinoa.
Keep picking for tasty and tender leaves, and to avoid the plant running to seed too soon. Grains can also be dried and saved for baking like quinoa.
How to care for tree spinach:
Keep the soil evenly moist during dry spells and mulch around the base to help retain moisture. Taller plants may need staking in windy sites, and removing any competing weeds early on helps them get away strongly.
Harvest young leaves regularly for the best colour and texture, taking the tender top growth or individual leaves as needed. Continuous picking encourages fresh growth and prevents plants from becoming too tall or coarse. Remove any flower spikes if you want to prolong leafy production.
Harvest young leaves regularly for the best colour and texture, taking the tender top growth or individual leaves as needed. Continuous picking encourages fresh growth and prevents plants from becoming too tall or coarse. Remove any flower spikes if you want to prolong leafy production.
Sowing instructions:
Sow direct and thinly into a prepared seed bed 0.5cm (¼in) deep in rows 30-45cm (12-18in) apart. Keep soil moist. Alternatively, sow under glass or on a sunny windowsill in trays filled with good quality seed sowing compost. Do not exclude light as this aids germination, which can take between 2-3 weeks.
Eventual height:
2m
Eventual spread:
1.5m
Position:
Full sun
Rate of growth:
Fast-growing
Soil:
Moderately fertile, moist but well-drained soil, or peat-free general purpose compost
Hardiness:
Borderline hardy (will need protection in winter in colder areas)
approx 250 seeds
£2.99
In stock
(delivery within 2-3 working days)
(delivery within 2-3 working days)
1
